Manchester United’s first away fixture of the season ended in a 2-0 loss against Tottenham Hotspur in London. The match saw chances for both sides in the first half, with Bruno Fernandes missing a crucial opportunity and Pedro Porro hitting the bar for Spurs. However, Tottenham took control in the second half, with goals from Pape Matar Sarr and Ben Davies sealing the victory. Here are four insights from United’s defeat.
Midfield Continues to Struggle
Tottenham’s success in this match highlighted persistent issues in United’s midfield. Much like their previous game against Wolves, Spurs exploited the gaps in United’s midfield, taking advantage of Casemiro’s isolation. Alejandro Garnacho and Mason Mount’s positioning left Casemiro outnumbered, creating an expansive midfield that Spurs exploited effectively. This pattern raises questions about when Erik ten Hag’s tactical adjustments will address these deficiencies. The system still appears to be in its formative stages, with repeated poor performances raising concerns about the team’s progress under Ten Hag.
Team’s Performance Lacks Cohesion
A year into Erik ten Hag’s tenure, United’s performance remains inconsistent, and in this match, Spurs showcased superior strategy and execution. Ange Postecoglou’s Spurs outplayed and outthought the Dutchman, reflecting a significant gap in tactical nous. United’s lack of a cohesive plan and intensity was evident, with the team failing to threaten effectively and the midfield continuing to be a weak link. The need for significant improvement is clear, as United’s current form suggests a team struggling to function as a cohesive unit. The upcoming fixtures, particularly against Arsenal at the Emirates, will test whether United can overcome these issues.
Onana’s Heroics Amidst a Challenging Performance
Andre Onana once again stood out as one of United’s best performers. His contributions included impressive saves and effective passing from deep, demonstrating his significant impact in goal. Despite his excellence, including stopping several Spurs chances and showcasing his full range of passing, the midfield and defence failed to support him adequately. Both goals conceded were avoidable, highlighting the ongoing issues in front of Onana. The £47 million investment in him appears to be a smart move, but the team’s broader issues remain a concern.
Concerns for the Future
The most troubling aspect of this defeat is not just the result but the performance. United appeared disjointed and lacking cohesion, which suggests that more challenging times could lie ahead. With a crucial match against Arsenal approaching, the team’s current form could lead to further difficulties. Unless reinforcements are secured and a rethinking of the midfield trio is implemented, there are significant concerns about United’s ability to compete effectively. The team must address these issues urgently to avoid further setbacks.
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